While you’re browsing through listings, be sure to keep an eye out for old homes. They offer a lot of beauty and warmth that seems to be missing in the design and building of new homes. Here are 15 interesting features of old homes that you’ll love.
High Ceilings
There’s just something special about high ceilings. Perhaps it’s the extra room they offer or the air of grandeur they give a space. However, I think we can all agree that they’re really wonderful, whatever it is.
And if you’re lucky enough to live in an old home with high ceilings, you’re in for a real treat. Just be prepared for a little extra legwork when it comes time to clean them!
Original Hardwood Floors
Have you ever seen an old home with beautiful hardwood floors and wondered what it would be like to walk on them?
These floors are one of the most interesting features of old homes. They were often made of oak, mahogany, or walnut, and they add so much character to the space. Plus, they’re really durable and can last for centuries if they’re well-maintained.
But here’s the thing: not many people know how to care for them properly. If you’re lucky enough to have original hardwood floors in your home, make sure you get them polished and sealed every few years to keep them looking their best.
Decorative Fireplaces
You know what they say fireplaces make a home. And old homes certainly have their share of beautiful fireplaces.
So if you’re lucky enough to have an old home with a fireplace, make sure you take advantage of it! Curl up by the fire with a good book or a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy the warmth and ambiance it provides.
Pocket Doors
Have you ever seen a pocket door? They’re really cool—basically, they’re doors that slide into the wall, so they don’t take up any extra space.
They were popular back in the day because they were a great way to save space, and they’re making a comeback now because they’re a great way to save energy. Plus, they just look really cool.
If you’re thinking of buying an old home, make sure to check and see if it has pocket doors. They can be a real bonus.
Large Moldings and Trim
You’ll love the large moldings and trim in these older homes. They really add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.
Not to mention, they’re great for hiding flaws in the walls and ceilings. So if you’re someone who’s not too handy, you’ll appreciate the extra bit of hiding power these moldings provide.
Additionally, they simply add a sense of luxury and exclusivity to a location. If you’re fortunate enough to come upon an ancient house with these amenities, be sure to utilize them!
Bay Windows
You know what they say: “Location, location, location.” And when it comes to old homes, that’s definitely true.
One of the best features of old homes is their prime location. They’re often nestled in the heart of downtown, which means you’re close to all the action. Plus, you can’t beat the character and charm of these homes.
Another great feature of old homes is their bay windows. These windows add so much light and space to a room, and they’re perfect for admiring the view.
Stained Glass
You’ll love stained glass in old homes. It’s such a beautiful and unique feature that you don’t see very often in new construction.
You can find stained glass in all sorts of places in old homes, from the front door to the windows to the fireplace. It’s a great way to add some color and personality to the space. And if you’re lucky, you might even find a home with stained glass that’s been made by a local artist.
If you’re thinking about buying an old home, make sure to keep an eye out for stained glass. It’s definitely one of the most special features of these homes, and it’s definitely worth taking the time to appreciate.
Beautiful Porches
Wrap-around porches were originally designed to provide shelter from the weather, but they’ve become a staple of Southern architecture. They’re not just for looks, though—they also serve a practical purpose.
Since they’re on three sides of the house, wrap-around porches provide great views of the property and allow for plenty of ventilation. They’re also a great place to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family. So if you’re looking for a little bit of Southern charm in your next home, be sure to look for a property with a wrap-around porch.
Built-in Bookshelves
You might love the built-in bookshelves in old homes. Not only do they provide a place to store your books, but they can also add a lot of character to a room.
Some people choose to use the bookshelves for storage, while others like to decorate them with plants, lamps, or other decorative items. No matter what you choose to do, it’s a great way to add some extra storage and personality to your home.
Leaded Glass Windows
You might love the intricate details of leaded glass windows.
They’re definitely a statement piece and can really add some character to your home. Of course, they’re also a bit of a pain to keep clean, but that’s nothing you can’t handle with a little bit of elbow grease and some Windex.
Clawfoot Tubs
Imagine sinking into a warm bath at the end of a long day. There’s nothing quite like it, is there? And old homes often come with Clawfoot Tubs—a feature that’s definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a new home.
claw foot tubs date back to the 1700s, and they were initially used as bathing tubs for the wealthy. They quickly became popular because they were elegant and luxurious, and they remain a popular choice today for those who want a unique look in their bathroom.
But there are more reasons to love Clawfoot Tubs than just their looks. For starters, they’re huge! This means you can fit lots of people in them (or just enjoy a long, relaxing soak all by yourself). They’re also great for soaking away tension and stress, and they can help improve circulation.
Conclusion
You’ll love most of the features in old homes – they just have character, charm, and history that newer homes can’t touch. First, old homes require more maintenance than newer homes. You should be prepared to paint, repair, and do renovation more frequently. Second, old homes can be quite expensive to heat and cool.
Overall, though, with a little bit of effort, an old home can be a real joy to live in.
